Southern Alberta’s flood season is on the way, and with unpredictable spring conditions posing an increased risk of water damage to homes and properties; homeowners should take proactive preventative steps. It doesn’t take a major flood to cause serious damage; even small amounts of moisture can lead to foundation problems, mould and other issues that can be very expensive to fix.

The good news is that a few simple landscaping and property upgrades can greatly reduce your chances of being affected by flooding. Retaining walls, grading and a well-designed gutter system are all proven strategies for warding off water.

Option #1: Have a Reputable Calgary Landscaping Company Install a Retaining Wall

Retaining walls are designed to add lateral support to vertically graded soil. They get their name from the fact that they “retain” soil, preventing it from collapsing or slipping. While their primary purpose is to hold back soil that would otherwise cave in or slide into a more natural shape, retaining walls also form effective barriers against floodwaters.

By virtue of their design, retaining walls facilitate water drainage, even in cases where volumes reach levels that are much higher than normal. As an alternative, you may want to consider a terrace-style barrier, especially if you live in a known flood-prone region of Alberta. These structures are purpose-built to handle unusually high water levels.

Every property has different needs, so be sure to discuss yours with an experienced Calgary landscaping company.

Option #2: Hire a Calgary Landscaping Company to Grade Your Property

Property grading is a strategy that safely routes rainwater away from your home. In essence, grading creates a gentle downward slope that leads away from your house, preventing rainwater from collecting around the perimeter of your home and potentially penetrating it.

While it is standard practice for lots to be graded when they’re sectioned off and sold, older properties may require upgrades. You may also want to introduce a steeper grade to your property if you’ve noticed excessive moisture collecting close to your home after a heavy rainfall.

Remember, too, that well-built patios and walkwaysalso promote safe drainage away from your home. Even a gentle downward grade is enough to keep rainwater from building up in problem areas.

Option #3: Design an Effective Rain Gutter System with the Help of a Professional Calgary Landscaping Company

One of the most cost-effective moisture prevention strategies is a well-designed rain gutter system. In particular, the strategic placement of the system’s downspouts is essential to optimal performance. While proper downspout placement depends on your property’s unique characteristics, such as the slope of your roof, the degree of grading and the amount of available room, the following general principles apply:

Downspouts should drain onto graded sections of land so the released water safely moves away from the property

Downspouts should not drain onto municipal sidewalks or driveways, since water can collect in these areas and potentially find its way back into your home

Downspouts should release rainwater at least 4 feet away from your home

It’s also essential to ensure that your gutters remain clear of debris all year round. In the winter, blockages can lead to ice dams, and in the spring, summer and fall, it can prevent rainwater from properly draining. This can lead to water backlogs that may get into your home through your roof.

Hail can strike with little warning, and hailstorms can wreak havoc on your home’s landscaping elements. Here are some simple strategies for mitigating potential hail damage to your property:

Add hooks to the overhang around your home’s perimeter so you can hang potted plants and flowers in a safe place if violent weather blows in

Use empty garbage cans to shield plants that cannot be moved

Use tarps to cover wider areas; hang the tarp from strategically placed grommets to maximize coverage

If hail damage strikes despite your best efforts to prevent it, pruning affected plants is usually the best way to encourage healthy regrowth.

Trust the Experience of Our Family-Owned Calgary Landscaping Company

For three generations, the pros at Mirage Landscaping have been helping Calgarians beautify and protect their properties. We offer everything from construction services and landscaping to regular lawn care and wintertime snow removal. Our services are affordable, and we guarantee your full and complete satisfaction. Visit our website to get a fast, free quote for all your property maintenance and landscaping needs.